Business leaders welcome the signing of the UK-India Free Trade Agreement

It’s a dynamic time for global trade, with Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, and Prime Minister of the UK, Keir Starmer signing a Free Trade Agreement on 24 July, 2025.

Business leaders welcome the signing go the UK-India Free Trade AgreementThe agreement promises to cut tariffs on British exports to India by over £400m, boosting trade between the two countries by an additional £25.5bn a year by 2040 – undoubtedly marking a pivotal moment in bilateral trade.

Business leaders have strongly welcomed the signing of the UK-India Free Trade Agreement, as Business and Trade Secretary, Jonathan Reynolds and India’s Commerce and Industry Minister, Piyush Goyal, signed the landmark trade deal.

The £4.8bn trade deal will unlock economic growth for each region and nation of the UK, and is widely backed by large and small businesses across aerospace, financial and professional services, food and drink, and the automotive sector.

Read more from www.gov.uk

 

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Simply click the options below or call our dedicated team…

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Port of Felixstowe receives its first two Autonomous Trucks (ATs)

Port of felixstowe has taken delivery of the first two units from an order for a further 34 autonomous trucks (ATs) from Shanghai Westwell…

International Freight Solutions Ltd is a member of BIFA

The leading body representing the UK International Freight Services industry – The British International Freight Association (BIFA) is the prime trade association for UK registered companies…

An introduction to International Freight Solutions (IFS)

International Freight Solutions (IFS) can arrange Express or Economy services for your Documents, Parcels, Pallets, Part or Full Trailer/Container Loads, either by Road, Ocean, Air or Rail…

Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ pre-Budget speech fails to rule out tax rises

Warnings that businesses can’t take more tax hikes.  Fear amongst economists that increasing taxes will not help economical growth…

IFS is a member of World Top Cargo Alliance of Freight Forwarders

International Freight Solutions are proud to be part of World Top Cargo Alliance and look forward to many years of fruitful partnership…

Logistics UK launches Logistics “Treasure Map” for innovators

Launched 21 October at Logistics UK’s Digital Transformation in Logistics conference, the roadmap challenges innovators to develop creative…

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) by International Freight Solutions

Learn more about a Freight Forwarder by International Freight Solutions. If you can’t find the answer you’re looking for…

UK Logistics Week 2026: Collaboration brings the entire logistics supply chain together

In a landmark strategic move set to fundamentally reshape the UK logistics exhibition landscape, between 30 June to 2 July 2026…

Member of FIATA, the International Federation of Freight Forwarders Associations

FIATA’s membership is composed of 114 Association Members, overall representing an industry of 40,000 freight forwarding and logistics firms worldwide..

Our International Courier Services are used by a vast range of business professionals

IFS have taken every care to ensure our customers save time and money when sending (or returning) a package overseas. We have a wealth of expertise…

International Trade Week 2025 to get businesses exporting and help grow the economy

Government announces a week of free trade-focused business events to help more British firms export goods and services to boost economy…

Logistics UK welcomes freight focus in Road Investment Strategy

The government’s third Road Investment Strategy (RIS3), published on 26 August, recognises that the UK’s motorways and trunk roads are “the economic arteries of the country” and it is “delays, bottlenecks and deteriorating infrastructure that stifle progress.” The £25...

Valued Google Customer Reviews for International Freight Solutions Ltd

A Freight Forwarder who regularly go the extra mile when it comes to customer service. We believe in carving out long term business relationships…

Infrastructure investment needed alongside Plug-In Van and Truck Grant extension

Extension of the Plug-in Van & Truck Grant announced on 18 Aug will subsidise the initial investment needed to purchase electric vehicles…

Delivery of Ceramic Sculptures from Yorkshire to Mallorca, via Short Sea Ferry

Image of delivery of Ceramic Sculptures from Holmfirth, to Mallorca, via Short Sea Ferry
Made in Yorkshire
Case Study:
James Oughtibridge Sculpture
Service provided by IFS:
Euro Short Sea – Door to Door
Destination:
Mallorca, Spain
Collection:
Yorkshire Sculpture Park, Barnsley
Consignment:
Wooden cases containing carefully wrapped Ceramic Sculptures, weight 548kg.
Transit Time:
2 Weeks.

Artisan Sculptures Made in Yorkshire

James Oughtibridge creates bold and striking forms in black and white clay often on a dramatic scale. His inspiration comes from the stunning landscape surrounding Yorkshire Sculpture Park where his studio is based.

The surrounding landscape is characterised by river valleys, hills, fells, mountains, high edges and valleys. The contour of this scenery is ever present and always inspiring. When mist and fog descend, it transforms the curves and valleys of the land into a monochromatic palette, where texture is prominent. These natural elements of texture, beauty and form are conveyed with each unique sculpture he creates.

This particular shipment was sent via short sea ferry to a villa in Mallorca, with the end customer arranging their own unloading facilities on this occasion. The value of the sculptures was £36,000 in total. James has literally carved out a niche in artisan sculptures which are purchased by collectors from around the globe.

To find out more about James’ work please visit his website: www.jamesoughtibridgesculpture.co.uk

Related topic: European Short Sea Services >

 

For an International Courier quotation or to book in your consignment, please click below…

Great service. We needed a parcel collecting from Italy - all arranged very smoothly, efficiently and a very quick delivery.
Response from the owner:Thank you for the great feedback Rachel. Glad everything went well for you and that you were happy with our service.
when a friend whose first langauge is not English needed a parcel shipping to Canada at short notice the team especially Paul came up trumps and pulled out all the stops i highly recommend this company
Response from the owner:Many thanks for the great review Alan, always happy to assist.
Lots of help and advice when shipping a ceramic sculpture to Dubai. Very smooth service and speedy delivery. Will definitely recommend.
Response from the owner:Really glad you were happy with our service Emily - hope to assist you again soon.
Great customer experience all the staff are great
Response from the owner:Appreciate the kind words Declan
Had 3 pallets to bring in from Greece. Sender was struggling with UK regulations. Spoke to one freight forwarder who just said 'can't help sorry' as their agent in Greece couldn't help. Was starting to worry until I found IFS. Google reviews looked good and when I spoke to Paul he couldn't have made things any easier. Pallets here safely within a couple of weeks, price cheaper than I was expecting and great communication throughout. Top top company.
Response from the owner:Hi Tony, thanks so much for the great review, we would be more than happy to help you with any further shipping requirements you have in the future!
I was engaged for rapid deployment of contract works in Falun, Sweden which required me to ship some materials to Sweden for the works to be executed. After nothing but extreme pain from the suppliers to get my goods to Sweden, I reached out to International Freight Solutions off the back of reviewing public feedback about their services. I could not have been happier. The team I was dealing with (Jamie and Adam) went above and beyond to guide me on what I needed (EORI number and everything else), kept me updated for the entire cycle of collection, shipping and delivery that I was always up to date and never concerned. Payment and any extra fees for customs or services was all straight forward. It really is this kind of service where there are no grey areas, total professional advice upfront and continued updates maintained, start to finish. For this, it makes me comfortable that future shipping will be trouble-free and I will certainly head straight back to IFS. Thanks Jamie and Adam. Back from Sweden tomorrow. Without your efforts, this would not have even started and got off the ground!
Response from the owner:Thanks for taking the time to leave a really great and detailed review - it means a lot to us! Jamie and Adam will be pleased with the mention too! We really look forward to assisting you again next time.
I would like to give a special positive review to Catherine Gibson our account manager. Catherine's communication is great along with her speedy competitive quotes. Her communication and updates with our air / sea imports are always up to date and accurate. We have been using International Freight Solutions for well over 12 months now and look forward to many more years working together.

Keep up the good work !!!!

Dan Willerton

Healthy Step (Sensograph) Ltd
Unit E209 Warmco Industrial Park,
Manchester Road, Mossley,
Ashton-under-Lyne,
Lancashire
OL5 9AY
Response from the owner:Many thanks for your great review Dan, it really means a lot to us and especially Cath as she’s bouncing along the clouds now!!
Amazing service from Paul - super helpful, informative and really has a wealth of knowledge. It is a pleasure working with him for our business needs.
Response from the owner:Sam, thanks so much for the kind words and taking the time out to leave such a fantastic review! Looking forward to assisting you again.
Perfect to deal with and nothing is too much trouble.
Response from the owner:We really appreciate you taking time to leave your kind review - many thanks Joanne!

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ASM calls on UK Government to rethink customs strategy following Single Trade Window collapse

ASM calls for intelligent data sharing between current government systems to boost efficiency and cut costs for UK businesses trading globally.

ASM (Agency Sector Management) is urging the UK government to act decisively in reshaping its digital border strategy, following the effective shelving of the much-anticipated Single Trade Window (STW) project.

“The STW began as a step in the right direction, but the execution, what there was of it, missed the mark,” said Simon Adams, Program Manager at ASM.

“With fragmented systems and redundant data processes still in place, the cost to businesses and inefficiency at the border remain high.

“Rather than returning to a somewhat flawed ‘tell us once’ approach, we are calling for a pragmatic shift toward smarter data sharing between existing government systems.

“By enabling cross-departmental data reuse, such as linking customs declarations submitted via CDS with the Safety & Security requirements managed by the Home Office, trade can be relieved of unnecessary duplication, without sacrificing compliance, data quality or visibility.

“The technology to simplify trade already exists. What we need now is the political will to connect the dots. A unified data model and consistent interface standards across all government border systems would transform how UK businesses trade globally.”

Originally championed as part of the 2025 Border Strategy, the STW was designed to simplify and streamline the interaction between traders and UK border agencies. However, following critical findings from the National Audit Office and growing fiscal pressure, the project stalled, leaving freight forwarders, customs brokers, and other trade professionals without the overarching digital solution they had been promised. Read more from ASM >

Need a quotation or ready to book a job?

Simply click the options below or call our dedicated team…

+44 (0) 1709 610 000

 

Port of Felixstowe receives its first two Autonomous Trucks (ATs)

Port of felixstowe has taken delivery of the first two units from an order for a further 34 autonomous trucks (ATs) from Shanghai Westwell…

International Freight Solutions Ltd is a member of BIFA

The leading body representing the UK International Freight Services industry – The British International Freight Association (BIFA) is the prime trade association for UK registered companies…

An introduction to International Freight Solutions (IFS)

International Freight Solutions (IFS) can arrange Express or Economy services for your Documents, Parcels, Pallets, Part or Full Trailer/Container Loads, either by Road, Ocean, Air or Rail…

Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ pre-Budget speech fails to rule out tax rises

Warnings that businesses can’t take more tax hikes.  Fear amongst economists that increasing taxes will not help economical growth…

IFS is a member of World Top Cargo Alliance of Freight Forwarders

International Freight Solutions are proud to be part of World Top Cargo Alliance and look forward to many years of fruitful partnership…

Logistics UK launches Logistics “Treasure Map” for innovators

Launched 21 October at Logistics UK’s Digital Transformation in Logistics conference, the roadmap challenges innovators to develop creative…

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) by International Freight Solutions

Learn more about a Freight Forwarder by International Freight Solutions. If you can’t find the answer you’re looking for…

UK Logistics Week 2026: Collaboration brings the entire logistics supply chain together

In a landmark strategic move set to fundamentally reshape the UK logistics exhibition landscape, between 30 June to 2 July 2026…

Member of FIATA, the International Federation of Freight Forwarders Associations

FIATA’s membership is composed of 114 Association Members, overall representing an industry of 40,000 freight forwarding and logistics firms worldwide..

Our International Courier Services are used by a vast range of business professionals

IFS have taken every care to ensure our customers save time and money when sending (or returning) a package overseas. We have a wealth of expertise…

International Trade Week 2025 to get businesses exporting and help grow the economy

Government announces a week of free trade-focused business events to help more British firms export goods and services to boost economy…

Logistics UK welcomes freight focus in Road Investment Strategy

The government’s third Road Investment Strategy (RIS3), published on 26 August, recognises that the UK’s motorways and trunk roads are “the economic arteries of the country” and it is “delays, bottlenecks and deteriorating infrastructure that stifle progress.” The £25...

Valued Google Customer Reviews for International Freight Solutions Ltd

A Freight Forwarder who regularly go the extra mile when it comes to customer service. We believe in carving out long term business relationships…

Infrastructure investment needed alongside Plug-In Van and Truck Grant extension

Extension of the Plug-in Van & Truck Grant announced on 18 Aug will subsidise the initial investment needed to purchase electric vehicles…

General Average Cargo Insurance from International Freight Solutions

General Average is declared when a sacrifice is taken to save a vessel from total loss (e.g. when the captain makes a decision to lose some containers in order to save the vessel).

It is based on the idea that the sacrifice made for the common good should be shared proportionately among all parties involved, including shipowners, cargo owners, and insurers.

In the case of general average customers will have to share the financial burden of the loss even if their goods were not damaged and without cargo insurance they may be liable for a substantial out-of-pocket cash amount.

Examples of General Average:

Maersk Honam (Fire). In March 2018, the vessel caught fire while sailing in the Arabian Sea carrying nearly 8,000 containers.The General Average declared for cargo owners with cargo aboard the Maersk Honam was 54% – meaning for every $100,000 of cargo on board, cargo owners would have to pay $54,000 to have their goods released.

Ever Given (Suez Canal). In March 2021, the large container vessel ran aground while transiting the Suez Canal. The Ever Given was stuck in the canal for six days, and the effort to get it moving again resulted in Egyptian authorities seeking compensation of close to $2 billion.Whilst General Average is still being finalised, cargo owners are expecting to face charges upwards of 20% of the cargo value they had aboard the vessel.

MS Dali (Baltimore Bridge). In March 2024, the 9,000 TEU capacity vessel struck the Baltimore Bridge, which subsequently collapsed on top of the bow of the vessel. Whilst the salvage operation is expected to last months, General Average was declared mid April meaning cargo owners face large costs to recover their cargo on board. Read more about this incident from the Loadster.com

Need a quotation or ready to book a job?

Simply add your insurance requirements in our online quote, or call us to discuss further:

+44 (0) 1709 610 000

IMPORTANT INSURANCE NOTICE – Please note…

IFS and our partners take a great deal of care when arranging the shipping of your goods, however, loss and damage do sometimes happen and it is EXTREMELY IMPORTANT that you have the benefit of cargo insurance.

In the event of loss/damage drivers, transport depots and shipping lines will either severely limit their liability to a very small amount, or make no payment at all. If you do not have your own cargo insurance we can arrange it for you. Please advise the value of your goods and we will provide a quotation. Thank you.

Port of Felixstowe receives its first two Autonomous Trucks (ATs)

Port of felixstowe has taken delivery of the first two units from an order for a further 34 autonomous trucks (ATs) from Shanghai Westwell…

International Freight Solutions Ltd is a member of BIFA

The leading body representing the UK International Freight Services industry – The British International Freight Association (BIFA) is the prime trade association for UK registered companies…

An introduction to International Freight Solutions (IFS)

International Freight Solutions (IFS) can arrange Express or Economy services for your Documents, Parcels, Pallets, Part or Full Trailer/Container Loads, either by Road, Ocean, Air or Rail…

Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ pre-Budget speech fails to rule out tax rises

Warnings that businesses can’t take more tax hikes.  Fear amongst economists that increasing taxes will not help economical growth…

IFS is a member of World Top Cargo Alliance of Freight Forwarders

International Freight Solutions are proud to be part of World Top Cargo Alliance and look forward to many years of fruitful partnership…

Logistics UK launches Logistics “Treasure Map” for innovators

Launched 21 October at Logistics UK’s Digital Transformation in Logistics conference, the roadmap challenges innovators to develop creative…

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) by International Freight Solutions

Learn more about a Freight Forwarder by International Freight Solutions. If you can’t find the answer you’re looking for…

UK Logistics Week 2026: Collaboration brings the entire logistics supply chain together

In a landmark strategic move set to fundamentally reshape the UK logistics exhibition landscape, between 30 June to 2 July 2026…

Member of FIATA, the International Federation of Freight Forwarders Associations

FIATA’s membership is composed of 114 Association Members, overall representing an industry of 40,000 freight forwarding and logistics firms worldwide..

Our International Courier Services are used by a vast range of business professionals

IFS have taken every care to ensure our customers save time and money when sending (or returning) a package overseas. We have a wealth of expertise…

International Trade Week 2025 to get businesses exporting and help grow the economy

Government announces a week of free trade-focused business events to help more British firms export goods and services to boost economy…

Logistics UK welcomes freight focus in Road Investment Strategy

The government’s third Road Investment Strategy (RIS3), published on 26 August, recognises that the UK’s motorways and trunk roads are “the economic arteries of the country” and it is “delays, bottlenecks and deteriorating infrastructure that stifle progress.” The £25...

Valued Google Customer Reviews for International Freight Solutions Ltd

A Freight Forwarder who regularly go the extra mile when it comes to customer service. We believe in carving out long term business relationships…

Infrastructure investment needed alongside Plug-In Van and Truck Grant extension

Extension of the Plug-in Van & Truck Grant announced on 18 Aug will subsidise the initial investment needed to purchase electric vehicles…

Why Multimodal 2025 comes at a pivotal time for Global Trade

The view from Marco Forgione, Director General of the Chartered Institute of Export & International Trade

“Multimodal 2025 comes at a pivotal moment for global trade. Logistics and supply chain professionals have had to deal with Brexit, the pandemic, and the impact of international conflicts and climate change in recent years. Now the industry is faced with the upending of the rules-based order of trade that we’ve known for decades by the Trump administration in the US.

“Trump’s protectionist and transactional approach is unpicking the multilateral global system we’ve become accustomed to, and the effects of this are already being felt throughout global supply chains. Trade flows are now shifting dramatically, and governments are racing to ensure their markets don’t become dumping grounds for cheap goods.

“Logistics and supply chain professionals are now navigating a rapidly changing trade landscape, whether that’s due to soaring tariffs or other protectionist measures such as export controls, sanctions or the removal of easements for lower value goods.

“But global trade will go on because businesses that trade internationally are more profitable, sustainable and employ more people. Trade is a force for good, helping to lift people out of poverty, facilitating the sharing of ideas and values across borders, and driving economic prosperity. I have no doubt logistics and trade professionals, like you, will meet the challenges of 2025 head-on and will continue to drive the industry forwards. Read more from Multimodal >

 

Should you need an International Shipping quotation or have a consignment to book in, please click below…

Great service. We needed a parcel collecting from Italy - all arranged very smoothly, efficiently and a very quick delivery.
Response from the owner:Thank you for the great feedback Rachel. Glad everything went well for you and that you were happy with our service.
when a friend whose first langauge is not English needed a parcel shipping to Canada at short notice the team especially Paul came up trumps and pulled out all the stops i highly recommend this company
Response from the owner:Many thanks for the great review Alan, always happy to assist.
Lots of help and advice when shipping a ceramic sculpture to Dubai. Very smooth service and speedy delivery. Will definitely recommend.
Response from the owner:Really glad you were happy with our service Emily - hope to assist you again soon.
Great customer experience all the staff are great
Response from the owner:Appreciate the kind words Declan
Had 3 pallets to bring in from Greece. Sender was struggling with UK regulations. Spoke to one freight forwarder who just said 'can't help sorry' as their agent in Greece couldn't help. Was starting to worry until I found IFS. Google reviews looked good and when I spoke to Paul he couldn't have made things any easier. Pallets here safely within a couple of weeks, price cheaper than I was expecting and great communication throughout. Top top company.
Response from the owner:Hi Tony, thanks so much for the great review, we would be more than happy to help you with any further shipping requirements you have in the future!
I was engaged for rapid deployment of contract works in Falun, Sweden which required me to ship some materials to Sweden for the works to be executed. After nothing but extreme pain from the suppliers to get my goods to Sweden, I reached out to International Freight Solutions off the back of reviewing public feedback about their services. I could not have been happier. The team I was dealing with (Jamie and Adam) went above and beyond to guide me on what I needed (EORI number and everything else), kept me updated for the entire cycle of collection, shipping and delivery that I was always up to date and never concerned. Payment and any extra fees for customs or services was all straight forward. It really is this kind of service where there are no grey areas, total professional advice upfront and continued updates maintained, start to finish. For this, it makes me comfortable that future shipping will be trouble-free and I will certainly head straight back to IFS. Thanks Jamie and Adam. Back from Sweden tomorrow. Without your efforts, this would not have even started and got off the ground!
Response from the owner:Thanks for taking the time to leave a really great and detailed review - it means a lot to us! Jamie and Adam will be pleased with the mention too! We really look forward to assisting you again next time.
I would like to give a special positive review to Catherine Gibson our account manager. Catherine's communication is great along with her speedy competitive quotes. Her communication and updates with our air / sea imports are always up to date and accurate. We have been using International Freight Solutions for well over 12 months now and look forward to many more years working together.

Keep up the good work !!!!

Dan Willerton

Healthy Step (Sensograph) Ltd
Unit E209 Warmco Industrial Park,
Manchester Road, Mossley,
Ashton-under-Lyne,
Lancashire
OL5 9AY
Response from the owner:Many thanks for your great review Dan, it really means a lot to us and especially Cath as she’s bouncing along the clouds now!!
Amazing service from Paul - super helpful, informative and really has a wealth of knowledge. It is a pleasure working with him for our business needs.
Response from the owner:Sam, thanks so much for the kind words and taking the time out to leave such a fantastic review! Looking forward to assisting you again.
Perfect to deal with and nothing is too much trouble.
Response from the owner:We really appreciate you taking time to leave your kind review - many thanks Joanne!

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